The tides are turning at Cousins Beach as fans eagerly await the third and final season of "The Summer I Turned Pretty," set to premiere on July 16, 2025, exclusively on Prime Video. Based on Jenny Han's best-selling romance trilogy, the series follows the tumultuous love life of Isabel "Belly" Conklin, portrayed by Lola Tung, as she navigates her feelings for two brothers, Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) and Conrad (Christopher Briney).
The recently released teaser trailer gives viewers a glimpse into the emotional turmoil that lies ahead. The montage showcases Belly and Jeremiah enjoying romantic moments at Finch University, set to Taylor Swift's uplifting track "Daylight." However, the mood shifts dramatically when Conrad reappears in Belly's life, with the music transitioning to Swift's poignant song "Red." This change hints at the complications that will arise as Belly grapples with her feelings for both brothers.
In the teaser, viewers see Belly and Jeremiah participating in playful activities like a three-legged race and a cozy movie night on a pool floatie at the Cousins Beach house. As the lyrics of "Daylight" play—"I once believed love would be burnin' red, but it's golden"—the scene shifts to winter, where Belly opens the door to find Conrad standing there, a moment that is sure to stir up emotions. This poignant scene recalls the cocoa moment shared between Belly and Conrad in Season 2, further emphasizing the unresolved feelings that linger.
Fans have been particularly excited about the inclusion of two Taylor Swift songs in the trailer, a move that aligns with the show's established musical theme. Earlier this year, a poster featuring Belly in a butter yellow dress sparked speculation among fans, who connected the color to the "golden" imagery in "Daylight." In contrast, the latest promotional material features Belly in red, alongside both brothers, suggesting a deeper narrative connection to the song "Red." The visual symbolism in these promotions has led to much discussion among fans about which brother Belly will ultimately choose.
The official poster, released on April 23, 2025, depicts Belly flanked by Jeremiah and Conrad, with Jeremiah leaning in affectionately while Conrad looks on with a hint of jealousy. This dynamic perfectly encapsulates the ongoing love triangle that has captivated viewers since the show's inception. As fans engage in spirited debates over social media, comments range from heartfelt pleas for Belly to choose Conrad to passionate declarations of support for Jeremiah.
As the series progresses into its final chapter, the plot will pick up two years after Belly made the difficult decision to end her relationship with Conrad. This time jump promises to explore how the characters have evolved during their time apart. Jenny Han, the show's creator and author of the original books, teased that viewers will witness significant changes in both Belly and Conrad as they reconnect. "Conrad's been away from everyone for a while, and now he's back in the mix with people. It's almost like rediscovering and also seeing the ways that they've both changed," Han explained in an interview.
Throughout the series, the love triangle has served as the central tension driving the narrative, and the upcoming season is expected to deliver the emotional highs and lows that fans have come to expect. The teaser hints at potential conflicts and challenges for Belly and Jeremiah's relationship, suggesting that love triangles are rarely straightforward. As romance narratives often dictate, viewers can anticipate moments of doubt and heartbreak before any resolution is reached.
"The Summer I Turned Pretty" has resonated with audiences for its relatable themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. The series captures the essence of youth and the bittersweet nature of first loves, making it a poignant coming-of-age story. The show's setting at Cousins Beach, filmed in picturesque locations along the Carolina coast, adds to the summer nostalgia that permeates the narrative.
With 11 episodes slated for the final season, this installment promises to be the longest yet, allowing ample time to delve into the characters' journeys. The chemistry between the cast members, particularly between Tung and Casalegno, has been highlighted by Han, who noted their seamless bond as they navigate the challenges of their characters' evolving relationship. "It's very sweet and there are so many amazing scenes for Belly and Jeremiah this season," Han said, emphasizing the emotional depth of their connection.
As anticipation builds for the premiere, fans are left to ponder the fate of Belly's love life. Will she choose the stability offered by Jeremiah or the passionate connection she shares with Conrad? The teaser trailer and promotional materials have set the stage for a dramatic conclusion, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
In addition to the romantic tension, the series has also explored themes of grief and personal growth, particularly through Conrad's character, who has faced the challenges of losing his mother. The emotional stakes are high as Belly must navigate her own feelings while supporting those she cares about.
As the countdown to July 16 continues, fans can indulge in the nostalgia of the previous seasons while eagerly awaiting the resolution of Belly's love story. Will the summer bring clarity, or will it only complicate matters further? With Jenny Han at the helm, viewers can expect a satisfying conclusion that honors the characters' journeys and the themes that have defined the series.
For those looking to catch up before the final season drops, all episodes of "The Summer I Turned Pretty" are currently available on Prime Video. As summer approaches, the anticipation for this beloved series reaches new heights, promising a heartfelt and unforgettable conclusion to Belly's coming-of-age tale.
